Floor SpeechNeutral2026-05-11

TRIBUTE TO ZYAN KNOLLMEYER

Eric Schmitt

RMO · Senator

Taxes

Context

On 2026-05-11, Senator Eric Schmitt (R-MO) delivered a floor speech titled "TRIBUTE TO ZYAN KNOLLMEYER" in the Senate.

Full Text

TRIBUTE TO ZYAN KNOLLMEYER

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 79 (Monday, May 11, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 79 (Monday, May 11, 2026)] [Senate] [Page S2197] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] TRIBUTE TO ZYAN KNOLLMEYER Mr. SCHMITT. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize Zyan Knollmeyer of Jefferson City, MO, a 2026 graduate whose wrestling career showcases American resilience. Born in the U.S. Virgin Islands, Zyan faced hardship at an early age with the tragic loss of his mother and spent time in Hawaii's foster care system. However, God had greater plans for him. Through several dedicated case managers, Zyan found his closest relatives in Missouri, who showed incredible compassion and quickly adopted him. Not long after arriving in the Show-Me State, Zyan had his first encounter with wrestling--and wasn't impressed. But with the guidance of a phenomenal coach who helped him discover his own exceptional strength and determination, Zyan quickly fell in love with the sport and committed himself to mastering his skills. That commitment led him to become the varsity heavyweight for Helias Catholic High School in his sophomore year. Over the years, Zyan has proven to be one of Missouri's most promising young athletes, finishing a remarkable season undefeated at 40-0 and claiming both the 2026 Missouri State Championship and NFHSC National Championship in his class. His dedication to honing his craft is truly remarkable. Zyan has not become complacent, instead taking every opportunity to practice new techniques to ensure he is always at the top of his game. He is the kind of young man who earns respect, leads by example, represents his community with pride, and takes time to encourage younger athletes who look up to him. Zyan has a bright future ahead, and as he looks forward to graduating, any university would be lucky to have him represent their wrestling program. His journey is a powerful ``only in America'' story, and I am proud to call him a fellow Missourian. ____________________

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TRIBUTE TO ZYAN KNOLLMEYER Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 79 (Monday, May 11, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 79 (Monday, May 11, 2026)] [Senate] [Page S2197] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] TRIBUTE TO ZYAN KNOLLMEYER Mr. SCHMITT. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize Zyan Knollmeyer of Jefferson City, MO, a 2026 graduate whose wrestling career showcases American resilience. Born in the U.S. Virgin Islands, Zyan faced hardship at an early age with the tragic loss of his mother and spent time in Hawaii's foster care system. However, God had greater plans for him. Through several dedicated case managers, Zyan found his closest relatives in Missouri, who showed incredible compassion and quickly adopted him. Not long after arriving in the Show-Me State, Zyan had his first encounter with wrestling--and wasn't impressed. But with the guidance of a phenomenal coach who helped him discover his own exceptional strength and determination, Zyan quickly fell in love with the sport and committed himself to mastering his skills. That commitment led him to become the varsity heavyweight for Helias Catholic High School in his sophomore year. Over the years, Zyan has proven to be one of Missouri's most promising young athletes, finishing a remarkable season undefeated at 40-0 and claiming both the 2026 Missouri State Championship and NFHSC National Championship in his class. His dedication to honing his craft is truly remarkable. Zyan has not become complacent, instead taking every opportunity to practice new techniques to ensure he is always at the top of his game. He is the kind of young man who earns respect, leads by example, represents his community with pride, and takes time to encourage younger athletes who look up to him. Zyan has a bright future ahead, and as he looks forward to graduating, any university would be lucky to have him represent their wrestling program. His journey is a powerful ``only in America'' story, and I am proud to call him a fellow Missourian. ____________________